What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?

Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, boost the immune system, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being. Massage can also aid in the release of toxins from muscle tissue.

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a  safe, warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort, or on a floor mat if you are receiving a Thai massage.

Must I be completely undressed?

You should undress to your level of comfort. That can range from fully clothed to fully undressed or anywhere in between. The most important thing is that you are comfortable. You will be properly draped or covered by a sheet during the entire session.Thai massage is done fully clothed; usually wearing stretchy ‘yoga’ type clothing.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?

The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, leaving you enough time to get under the sheet and blanket on the massage table. The therapist will alway knock before opening the door.

Will I be covered during the session?

You will be properly covered by a sheet also known as draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable.

What parts of my body will be massaged?

A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders, chest above the breast tissue and may include the abdomen. Please tell your therapist if you do not want any of these areas massaged.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?

A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil,lotion, or cream is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?

Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.

Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable or require modification of the massage?

Yes. That’s why it’s imperative that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session.

There are many conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt his/her techniques (i.e., arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e., cuts or burns). This doesn’t mean you can’t get massage. But its always better to err on the side of caution.

How often should I get a massage?

That can vary from person to person. If you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule.